Grading the States 2009 Report Card: District of Columbia

In 2006, the mental health care system in the nationís capital received a grade of C. Three years later, its grade has not moved. It is not yet on firm ground, lacking both stable leadership and independence. Full narrative (PDF).

Health Promotion and Measurement: D 25% of Total GradeBasic measures, such as the number of programs delivering evidence-based practices,
emergency room wait-times, and the quantity of psychiatric beds by setting.

Financing & Core Treatment/Recovery Services: B 45% of Total GradeA variety of financing measures, such as whether Medicaid reimburses providers for all, or part of evidence-based practices; and more.

Consumer & Family Empowerment: D 15% of Total GradeIncludes measures such as consumer and family access to essential information from the
state, promotion of consumer-run programs, and family and peer education and support.

Community Integration and Social Inclusion: C 15% of Total GradeIncludes activities that require collaboration among state mental health agencies and other state agencies and systems.